What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a form of dizziness characterized by the feeling that you or your environment is moving or spinning, despite the lack of any actual movement. This sensation is brought on by disturbances in the inner ear or the brain.

Types of Vertigo

Peripheral Vertigo

Peripheral vertigo is associated with problems in the inner ear.

The vestibular system sends signals to the brain about the position of the head in relation to movement, enabling us to keep our balance and maintain equilibrium.

When these signals are disrupted, vertigo results. This is often caused by inflammation related to a viral infection.

Other causes of peripheral vertigo include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when tiny pieces of calcium break off and float in the tube of the inner ear, sending confusing messages to the brain, and Meniere’s disease, which involves excess pressure of the fluid in the inner ear.

Central Vertigo

Central vertigo occurs when there is a problem in the brain, usually affecting the brainstem or the cerebellum.

These parts of the brain are responsible for interactions between the visual and balance systems; any disturbance can lead to vertigo.

The most common cause of central vertigo is a migraine headache. Other less common conditions that can trigger central vertigo include stroke, tumors, acoustic neuroma, multiple sclerosis, alcohol and certain drugs.

Symptoms of Vertigo

Technically speaking, vertigo is a symptom itself. It’s characterized by the sensation that you or the room is moving or spinning. This may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as:

Nausea

Vomiting

Hearing loss

Tinnitus

Difficulty focusing or moving the eyes

Double vision

Feeling of fullness in the ear

Treatments for Vertigo

If you’re suffering from vertigo, your Portland doctor will give you a thorough physical examination and may order a CT scan or MRI.

Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of vertigo. Some forms disappear without treatment. BPPV, the most common type of vertigo, responds well to head maneuvers, while other types are successfully treated with medication. When the condition persists, physical therapy can help.

If you are tired of living with vertigo, now is the time to do something about it. Contact your local Portland ENT physician to schedule an appointment today.